Have you ever wondered why sausage patties taste so good… and why they’re such a hit on the breakfast plate? It’s more than just meat and spices—there’s a secret behind their flavor, texture, and how fast they’re made. Whether you fry them up in the morning or save them for a quick dinner, sausage patties are one of the most loved comfort foods out there. But what makes them special? And can you make them at home even better than the store-bought kind?
Let’s find out in this fun, easy, and tasty guide all about sausage patties.
Table of Contents
What Are Sausage Patties?
Sausage patties are small, round pieces of seasoned ground meat—usually pork, but sometimes turkey, chicken, or beef. They are shaped by hand or with a scoop and cooked on a skillet, g
riddle, or in the oven.
Unlike sausage links, which are stuffed into a casing, patties are free-formed and super easy to make at home.
Why Are Sausage Patties So Special?
There’s something simple but magical about sausage patties:
- Quick to make – Mix, shape, and cook in under 30 minutes.
- Tons of flavor – With herbs, spices, and juicy meat.
- Easy for beginners – No fancy tools needed.
- Super versatile – Eat them with eggs, pancakes, or in sandwiches!
Time Needed
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 8–10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes or less
Skill Level
Beginner-friendly! If you can mix and shape meat, you can make sausage patties.
Essential Ingredients for Sausage Patties
Let’s take a look at what you need:
✅ Main Ingredients
| Ingredient | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Ground pork | Juicy, flavorful base of the patty |
| Salt | Brings out the flavor |
| Black pepper | Adds a gentle heat |
| Sage | Gives classic breakfast sausage flavor |
| Thyme | Adds earthy, savory notes |
| Red pepper flakes | For a spicy kick (optional) |
| Brown sugar | Balances the spice and adds sweetness |
Swaps and Alternatives
- Ground turkey or chicken – Lower in fat, but a little drier.
- Beef – Heartier flavor, great for dinner sausages.
- Maple syrup instead of sugar – For a sweet twist.
- Garlic or onion powder – For deeper savory flavor.
Step-by-Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Sausage Patties (In More Detail!)
Making sausage patties from scratch is easier than you think! With just a few simple steps, you can go from plain ground meat to golden, sizzling, flavor-packed patties in no time. Let’s take it one fun step at a time.
Step 1: Gather All Your Ingredients
Before you start mixing, make sure you have everything ready.
You’ll need:
- 1 pound ground pork (or turkey, chicken, or beef)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar (or maple syrup)
- Optional: 1 garlic clove (minced), 2 tablespoons grated onion
Helpful Tip: Place a small plate in the freezer to help test the seasoning later.
Step 2: Season the Meat
- Put the ground meat in a large mixing bowl.
- Sprinkle all your spices and brown sugar evenly over the top.
- Add garlic and onion if using.
Now, use clean hands or a large spoon to gently mix the ingredients. Try folding the meat rather than squishing it too much.
Why this matters: Overmixing can make the patties tough. Mix just enough to blend the seasoning.
Step 3: Test the Flavor (Optional but Smart!)
Before forming all the patties, it’s a great idea to test the flavor.
- Take a small spoonful of the seasoned meat mixture.
- Flatten it into a mini patty and cook it in a hot skillet for 1–2 minutes on each side.
- Let it cool, then taste.
Adjust if needed: Too salty? Add more meat. Not enough flavor? Add more herbs or spices.
Step 4: Shape the Sausage Patties
Now it’s time to make the patties!
- Divide the mixture into 8 to 10 equal portions. You can eyeball it or use a kitchen scale for even sizing.
- Roll each portion into a ball with your hands.
- Gently flatten the balls into discs about ½ inch thick.
Tips for shaping:
- Wet your hands with water or oil to keep the meat from sticking.
- Press a small thumbprint in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up in the middle.
Step 5: Heat the Pan
- Place a non-stick or cast-iron skillet on the stove.
- Set the heat to medium.
- If your meat is lean (like turkey or chicken), add 1 tablespoon of oil to prevent sticking.
Preheat first: Make sure your pan is hot before adding patties. You should hear a sizzle!
Step 6: Cook the Patties
- Add the patties to the hot skillet, leaving space between each one.
- Cook for about 4–5 minutes per side. Flip only once for the best crust.
You’ll know they’re ready to flip when the bottoms are browned and easy to lift.
- After flipping, cook another 4–5 minutes until cooked through.
Check doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer—look for 160°F (71°C) inside.
- Or cut one open to check for no pink and clear juices.
Step 7: Drain and Rest
- Remove patties from the pan and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any extra grease.
- Let them rest for 2–3 minutes before serving.
Resting matters: It helps the juices stay inside and keeps the patties moist and tasty.
Bonus Cooking Options
Don’t want to use a skillet? Try these:
Oven Method:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place patties on a lined baking sheet.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Air Fryer Method:
- Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
- Place patties in a single layer.
- Cook for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.
Grill Method:
Grill patties 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through.
Preheat grill to medium-high.
How to Assemble the Best Sausage Patties Meal
Now that your patties are cooked, how should you serve them?
Breakfast Ideas
- With scrambled eggs and toast
- Inside an English muffin with cheese
- Alongside pancakes or waffles
Sandwich Style
- Layer on a biscuit with a fried egg and cheddar
- Wrap in a tortilla with avocado and hot sauce
Dinner Twist
- Serve over mashed potatoes with gravy
- Use in a rice bowl with veggies
Presentation Tip: Garnish with chopped parsley or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips for Sausage Patties
Want to make life even easier? Here’s how!
Storing
- Fridge: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap uncooked or cooked patties in foil or plastic wrap, then freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
- Microwave: 30–60 seconds per patty.
- Skillet: Heat gently for a crisp outside.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Make-Ahead Tip: Form raw patties and refrigerate overnight for easy cooking the next morning.
Fun Recipe Variations for Sausage Patties
Want to spice things up? Try these fun ideas!
Herb Lovers’ Sausage
Add fresh herbs like rosemary, parsley, or basil for garden flavor.
Spicy Sausage Patties
Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
Garlic & Onion Style
Mix in minced garlic and finely diced onion for rich, savory taste.
Apple & Sage Patties
Grate a small apple and mix it into the pork with extra sage—sweet and savory magic!
Chicken Breakfast Patties
Use ground chicken, garlic, and rosemary for a leaner, tasty twist.
Health Benefits of Sausage Patties
You might think sausage patties are only tasty—but they can also be part of a balanced meal!
Packed with Protein
- Helps you stay full and gives you energy.
Quick Cooking Time
- Less time in the kitchen, more time to enjoy!
Easy to Customize
- Control the salt, fat, and flavor to match your health goals.
Conclusion: Let’s Make Sausage Patties!
So now you know the secret to perfect sausage patties—they’re fast, fun, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a weekend brunch with friends, sausage patties are a hit every time.
Give them a try and make them your own—spicy, sweet, or somewhere in between!
❓FAQs About Sausage Patties
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of pork?
A: Absolutely! Just add a bit of oil or fat to keep them juicy.
Q: How long do sausage patties last in the fridge?
A: Up to 4 days. Be sure to store in an airtight container.
Q: Are sausage patties healthy?
A: They can be! Use lean meat, skip the sugar, and add extra herbs or veggies for a nutritious twist.
Q: Can I bake sausage patties instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Q: What’s the best way to make them spicy?
A: Add cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a splash of hot sauce to your mix.
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Ultimate Homemade Sausage Patties
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground pork
- Or substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or beef – see variations below
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Enhances all the flavors.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Adds a mild kick and balance.
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- Gives that classic sausage taste.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Earthy and aromatic.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
- For a spicy sausage – adjust to your heat level.
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar or maple syrup
- Adds a touch of sweetness and helps caramelize.
- 1 garlic clove minced (optional)
- Boosts savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons finely grated onion optional
- Adds juiciness and depth without chunks.
Notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
✅ Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large bowl, add the ground meat.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, sage, thyme, red pepper flakes, and brown sugar on top.
- Add minced garlic and onion if using.
- Gently mix everything using clean hands or a spoon. Don’t overmix.
✅ Step 2: Taste Test (Optional)
- Scoop a small spoonful of the mixture.
- Flatten and cook it in a pan for 1–2 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
✅ Step 3: Shape the Patties
- Divide the meat into 8 to 10 equal parts.
- Roll each into a ball, then flatten into a ½-inch patty.
- Press your thumb in the center to help them cook evenly.
✅ Step 4: Cook the Patties
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil if using lean meat.
- Add the patties, spacing them out.
- Cook 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until browned and cooked through.
✅ Step 5: Drain and Rest
- Transfer patties to a plate lined with paper towels.
- Let rest 2–3 minutes before serving.